5 Things You Didn't Know About Scottish Fold Cats

Popular Breed Surprises

These friendly and affectionate cats have often been compared to owls with their closely tucked ears, large eyes and round face. The breed became a trending subject in recent years thanks to the popular songstress Taylor Swift, who often shows off pictures of her two Scottish fold cats on her various social media accounts.

Trending or not, the Scottish fold cat has been a popular choice due to its sweet nature and entertaining disposition.

Here are five things you may not have known about Scottish fold cats.

1. My, What Ears You Have!

Scottish fold cats are well known for their distinct, folded ears. Would it surprise you to know that Scottish fold cats are not born with folded ears?

In fact, all Scottish fold kittens are born with typical straight ears which *may* begin to flop over around three to four weeks of age. Surprise! There’s a chance your Scottish fold cat may never have folded ears. It’s true: some Scottish fold cats have straight pointed ears. It all boils down to genes. Many Scottish fold cats are born with a dominant gene mutation which produces the fold; however, some are born without this gene.

2. Solid Roots

Almost a rarity for any breed of species, the Scottish fold cat can trace its roots back to one particular cat named Susie. Susie was a barn cat living in Scotland who so happened to have flat ears. When she gave birth to a litter, the kittens also developed folded ears.

At that point, a neighboring farmer and cat fancier decided to start breeding Susie with the help of a geneticist. By 1976, the Scottish fold cat was one of the most popular cat breeds in Europe and America.

3. Yep, We Can Hear You

Despite the genetic mutation, there’s nothing wrong with a Scottish fold cat’s ears. The breed can hear perfectly well, just like any other cat breed with pointed ears. The fold in their ears does not limit their range of hearing whatsoever.

4. Handle Tails Carefully

Scottish fold cats can develop arthritis in their tails at a young age. This condition is very painful. You may notice your Scottish fold cat holding his tail stiffly or pulling away when you try to pet it.

Ask your veterinarian to examine your Scottish fold cat’s tail during routine exams.

5. Common Health Concerns for Scottish Fold Cats

The most common health conditions for the Scottish fold cat breed, based on Nationwide pet insurance policyholder claims in 2016 are, in order of pervasiveness: